Can I use a rotisserie chicken instead of baking fresh chicken?

Absolutely. Using a rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saving option. Simply shred the meat and add it directly to your simmering broth before adding the dumplings. This shortcut delivers the same tender, flavorful results without the extra cooking time.

How do I prevent the dumplings from becoming too gummy?

The key is not to overcrowd the pot and to stir gently while the dumplings cook. Also, ensure you dust them well with flour before adding to the broth—this not only helps thicken the liquid but prevents sticking. Most importantly, don’t overcook them; test a dumpling after 15–20 minutes to ensure it's fully cooked but still tender.

Can Chicken and Dumplings be frozen?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Chicken and Dumplings. Keep in mind that the texture of the dumplings may change slightly upon reheating, becoming softer or breaking apart. For best results, freeze the broth and chicken separately and make fresh dumplings when you reheat.

Chicken and Dumplings – Easy Recipe for Cozy Comfort

Name: Chicken and Dumplings
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 chicken breasts (about 3 cups cooked): the main protein, shredded for tender bites; 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil: for seasoning and roasting the chicken; Salt and pepper to taste: enhances overall flavor; 2 quarts chicken broth: forms the rich, savory base of the soup; 2 cups all-purpose flour: the base for dumplings and helps thicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: gives a slight lift to the dumplings; 2 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed: adds richness and flakiness to dumplings; 1 cup whole milk: provides moisture and softness to the dough; Extra flour (for rolling): prevents sticking and aids in thickening the soup

Description

This old-fashioned Chicken and Dumplings recipe is a Southern comfort food classic made from scratch with tender shredded chicken and hearty flat dumplings simmered in rich, flavorful chicken broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and brings a nostalgic, homemade taste to your table.

Ingredients

Scale

2-3 chicken breasts (about 3 cups cooked): the main protein, shredded for tender bites
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil: for seasoning and roasting the chicken
Salt and pepper to taste: enhances overall flavor
2 quarts chicken broth: forms the rich, savory base of the soup
2 cups all-purpose flour: the base for dumplings and helps thicken broth
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: gives a slight lift to the dumplings
2 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed: adds richness and flakiness to dumplings
1 cup whole milk: provides moisture and softness to the dough
Extra flour (for rolling): prevents sticking and aids in thickening the soup

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken breasts on a greased baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Bake for 45 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove and shred with two forks or a stand mixer.
Pour chicken broth into a large pot and warm over medium heat while preparing dumplings.
In a bowl, combine flour and baking powder. Add cubed cold butter and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in milk and stir to form a dough. Dust countertop with flour and roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness.
Cut dough into small squares using a knife or pizza cutter. Dust dumplings with flour to prevent sticking.
Bring the broth to a boil. Add shredded chicken, then slowly add dumplings one at a time while stirring to keep them separated.
Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dumplings are tender and broth has thickened slightly.
Taste-test a dumpling to ensure it’s fully cooked (no doughy texture), then serve hot.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time if you prefer not to roast your own.
Dusting dumplings with flour helps thicken the broth and prevent sticking.
Do not overcrowd the pot; dumplings need space to cook evenly.
Leftovers should be eaten within a day as dumplings will absorb more broth over time.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop & Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 348
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 1246mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 17g
Cholesterol: 60mg